Appraising Bioenergy Alternatives in Uganda Using Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities and Threats (SWOT)-Analytical Hierarchy Process (AHP) and a Desirability Functions Approach

Abstract

Poor access to clean and reliable energy technologies is a major challenge to most developing countries. The decision to introduce new technologies is often faced by low adoption rates or even public opposition. In addition, the data required for effective decision making is often inadequate or even lacking, thus constraining the planning process. In this study, a methodology for participatory appraisal of technologies, integrating desirability functions to the strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats (SWOT)-analytical hierarchy process (AHP) methodology was developed. Application of the methodology was illustrated with an example for participatory appraisal of four bioenergy technologies in Uganda. Results showed that the methodology is effective in evaluating stakeholder preferences for bioenergy technologies. It showed a high potential to be used to identify and rate factors that stakeholders take into consideration when selecting bioenergy systems. The method could be used as a tool for technology screening, or reaching consensus in a participatory setup in a transparent manner.

Mini-grids and renewable energy in rural Africa: How diffusion theory explains adoption of electricity in Uganda

“…This approach allowed them to explain the new technology, discuss potential advantages, create technical awareness, and explain money-related issues such as tariffs and connection fees. According to Okello et al [9], lack of awareness is stressed as an obstacle for bioenergy technology and could, based on our findings, be properly managed through appropriate communication channels. An interview with the expert in the field of the environment and development confirmed the more effective use of this channel, especially for small companies operating in sub-Saharan Africa.…”

“…In particular, Okello et al [9] highlight that high investment costs for users could hinder the introduction of bioenergy technology in Uganda. To connect households to the mini-grid, Pamoja charged an initial connection fee of 100,000 UGX.…”

“…According to Okello et al [9], there are a number of advantages to using bioenergy technology, such as health benefits and energy security. Regarding the relative advantages of the innovation, the most frequent answer, stated by 13 interviewees, was that the provided electricity was perceived to give brighter light than kerosene lamps.…”

“…Therefore, people without access to the grid use alternative energy sources such as kerosene and diesel engines. Furthermore, Ugandans may perceive charcoal as a non-sustainable energy alternative because of its potential to harm the environment [9]. In addition to the improvements stated by Musinguzi et al [7], enabling electricity access for the remaining 96% can also have a positive impact on welfare and the sustainability of livelihoods [10][11][12].…”

An Integrated Decision-Making Model for Transformer Condition Assessment Using Game Theory and Modified Evidence Combination Extended by D Numbers

“…The AHP method, established by Satty, which has been successfully employed under many actual decision-making situations [11][12][13][14], is a popular approach for determining the weights of alternatives in MADM problems involving qualitative data [15,16]. In addition, the Dempster-Shafer theory (also called evidence theory), initially presented by Dempster [17] and then developed by Shafer [18], is applied to handle the uncertain information in MADM problems [5,6].…”